Research and development at Cornell over the past decade, along with several partnerships and research projects has enabled greater understanding of the technical and business aspects of a small farm log-grown shiitake enterprise. Woodland log-grown mushrooms are a relatively new, niche crop and are low-input, high output enterprise that can also offset land taxes.

Where do I start?

Building a viable farm enterprise requires two major parts; the technical aspects of how to successfully produce shiitake mushrooms, and the business planning aspects including marketing, budgeting, and legal requirements.

LEARN TO GROW: Consult our guidebook and videos and learn about Cornell research to improve profitability at our “How to Grow” page.

DEVELOP A BUSINESS: Walk through the short lessons below to learn about critical aspects of planning for a viable shiitake business.

Mini Business Lessons

These are being released Summer 2018, check back for more and join the listserv below to receive updates.

Lesson 4: Budgeting & Cash Flow

Lesson 5: Market Channel Assessment

View Past Workshop Materials

We offered several one-day workshops this past winter in eight locations around New York State this winter focused on farm viability. This is achieved with good business planning and attention to strategies which minimize costs and optimize efficiency. You can view the recordings of presentations given by Agroforestry Extension Specialist Steve Gabriel below: